Mpox

On August 14, 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a global public health emergency regarding new mpox outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Read statement from WHO. While local risk remains low at this time, people at risk should increase their precautions now to prevent exposure even if vaccinated.

The JYNNEOS vaccine remains effective against this new outbreak.

• Persons at risk of getting infected should get vaccinated.
• If you have already gotten one dose of the vaccine, get the 2nd dose now.
• If you have already had two doses, you are fully vaccinated and protected.

Mpox is spread through close physical contact between individuals. This includes:

• Skin-to-skin contact with mpox sores or rashes; or skin contact with dressings, fabrics etc. which have come into contact with skin lesions.
• Sexual activity(PDF, 298KB) with multiple, casual partners significantly increases risk of infection.
• Exposure to respiratory droplets or oral fluids from someone with mpox, such as being within 3 feet of an infected person, especially if they are coughing, or are around them for a long period of time.
• Through contact with objects or fabrics (e.g., clothing, bedding, towels) that have been used by someone with mpox.

Note that the disease is contagious from the onset of symptoms until the rash has healed, all scabs have fallen off, and a fresh layer of skin has formed. The illness typically lasts 2-4 weeks.

Symptoms of mpox include:

• Rashes, bumps, or blisters on or around the genitals or in other areas like your hands, feet, chest, or face which are not clearly due to another known cause.
• Please note that this current strain of mpox has a rash that does not present as it has previously; internet searches for “mpox rashes” may look different; any suspicious new rashes, bumps or blisters should be examined by a health care provider.
• Swollen lymph glands.
• Suspicion of mpox is greater if flu-like symptoms, such as fever, headache, muscle aches, chills, and fatigue are present as well. These symptoms may occur before or after the rash appears, or not at all.

Note that it may take 21 days from exposure until one develops signs of the infection.

Important facts and steps to take to reduce risk:

• Avoid close face-to-face and skin-to-skin contact with someone who has a mpox-related rash or other symptoms.
• Ask your sexual partner(s) whether they have a rash or other symptoms consistent with mpox and if so, delay sex until they are evaluated by a healthcare provider.
• If you are exposed or experience symptoms, make sure to reach out to a health care provider and avoid having sexual contact until your health has been evaluated.
• Avoid activities that increase exposure to mpox, especially when traveling to a region, state, or country where mpox is present.
• The NYS Department of Health reports that a vast majority of mpox cases have occurred within populations of men who have sex with other men, however, it has also been spread man to woman, and woman to woman and without sexual relations.
• Refer to the CDC's guide to Safer Sex and Social Gatherings.

Anyone who is concerned about their risk or are concerned they may be experiencing symptoms, should contact their health care provider for a risk-assessment to determine the appropriate steps to take.

Vaccination

There is a vaccine which protects against MPX, JYNNEOS. This vaccine is available at our Friday Immunization Clinics.

• TCWH Clinic info:
  
  • JYNNEOS Vaccine can be given to anyone at our clinic, regardless of insurance status.
  • Hours: Fridays 9:00 AM–12:00 PM; 1:00 PM–4:00 PM
  • For appointments and more information, call Community Health Services at 607-274-6604.

Treatments are available for those who meet criteria and are infected with mpox, including antiviral medication. A vaccine is used for those at high risk of infection who meet criteria.

• Healthcare providers can test for MPX.
  
  • Testing includes swabbing a lesion and submitting to a commercial laboratory for analysis.
  • Individuals will need to isolate while awaiting test results.
  • If test is positive, close contacts will need to be identified in order to prevent the spread of mpox. TCWH will communicate with positive cases and notify close contacts.
• Anyone who does not currently have a health care provider or who is uninsured and seeking a local provider may dial 2-1-1 (1-877-211-8667).
• Treatments are available for those who meet criteria and are infected with mpox, including antiviral medication. A healthcare provider can prescribe antiviral medication.